Swedish port shifts transition activities into high gear

In response to new regulations and global environmental challenges, the Swedish Port of Norrköping has decided to adopt a new approach and accelerate its transition strategy for achieving fossil-free operations by 2030.

According to the port, the decision to reassess and adopt a new approach to the transition strategy stemmed from the need to meet its own, national, and global climate goals and remain competitive.

Eva-Lotte Wondollek, Project Manager responsible for leading the work on the transition strategy, said the port had developed a new and more far-reaching strategy that will be key to actively contributing to Sweden’s and the world’s climate goals and to improving the environment and public health in the local area.

As explained, the transition will become a natural part of Norrköping port’s entire operation, from budgeting to processes and working methods.

“The energy issue is pivotal and both vast and complex. Thanks to early and constructive dialogue with our supplier EON, we can meet future increased power demands,” Wondollek said.

The transition will see the port adopt new technology and update employees’ skills. It will involve the shift to more electrically powered machinery that will require a robust electrical distribution infrastructure and specific technical expertise.

In addition, the increased use of autonomous equipment is expected to impact the development of planning systems and behavioral patterns within the port area, Wondollek continued.

She also highlighted that the port has several ongoing initiatives and projects, including investments in more efficient equipment and fuel-saving activities, to reduce consumption by 5% per year, to streamline operations and reduce energy consumption.

“Ports play a crucial role in society’s climate transition by offering solutions that support electrification. Customers increasingly expect us to help them reduce their emissions. Swedish ports have a particularly important role in maritime transition, as shipping companies prepare their vessels to receive electricity at the quay, a requirement mandated by our operational permit from 2030 onwards.

“Moreover, new fuels like e-methanol and green ammonia are being developed to replace current fossil fuels in shipping. We are already collaborating, for example, in the project Sustainable Flow, which will provide us and our customers with substantial support towards our goal,” she concluded.

In related news, the Port of Norrköping recently marked the first visit by an LNG-powered vessel. Namely, MS Mermaid, CMA CGM’s first vessel of a series of ten new 2,000 TEU containerships powered by LNG, docked at the Swedish port. It was also MS Mermaid’s first voyage to Norrköping.

The ship is part of CMA CGM’s fleet renewal program, which has seen an investment of more than $15 billion. The investment is part of the group’s efforts to achieve net zero emissions by 2050.